Pycnonotus brunneus
The Asian Red-eyed Bulbul (Pycnonotus brunneus) is a rather unassuming yet captivating member of the bulbul family (Pycnonotidae), primarily found in Southeast Asia. This medium-sized passerine measures approximately 17-18 cm in length and weighs around 25-30 grams. Its plumage is predominantly a dull olive-brown dorsally, transitioning to a paler, more grayish-brown on the underparts, often with a faint yellowish wash on the lower belly. The most striking and diagnostic field mark, lending t...
Primarily inhabiting lowland and lower montane evergreen and secondary forests, including peat swamp forests and forest edges. It is typically found from sea level up to elevations of about 1,000 meters.
Omnivorous, feeding primarily on small insects and a wide variety of fruits, berries, and occasionally nectar. It forages by gleaning and plucking from vegetation.
Asian Red-eyed Bulbuls are generally active during the day, foraging among the mid-canopy and understory layers, often in pairs or small family groups, though larger mixed-species flocks can form around fruiting trees. Their foraging strategy involves gleaning insects from foliage and branches, a...
The Asian Red-eyed Bulbul is a widespread resident throughout much of tropical Southeast Asia. Its core distribution includes Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra, Borneo, and various smaller associated islands, such as Natuna. It also extends north into southern Thailand and the extreme southern regions...
Least Concern
- The 'red-eye' is not actually an iris but a distinctive red orbital ring, though commonly referred to as the iris by birders. - Despite its commonality, its drab plumage often makes it overlooked compared to flashier bulbul species in its range. - It is known to join mixed-species foraging floc...